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Chapter 168: Merchant Counts Gold Coins II
Chapter 168: Merchant Counts Gold Coins II
Chapter 168: Merchant Counts Gold Coins II
There exists a word: “touch.” (G: In this case, a distinctive manner or method of dealing with something.)
On the surface, it’s a simple term, often used for lighting a candle, yet it holds a curious anecdote passed down through the ages.
Once, a wise man, while writing a letter to a prime minister concerning national affairs, asked his servant to light a candle with a touch. Unintentionally, he jotted down this very word in the letter. When the prime minister received and read the letter, he found himself pondering the unknown term, “touch.” He interpreted it to mean “be mindful of selecting capable individuals”—although the wise man had no such intention. Regardless, the prime minister took this as advice and appointed numerous talented people, thus enriching and strengthening the nation.
This story illustrates how a single, unintended word can have far-reaching consequences.
A similar phenomenon was now unfolding within the Dragona Empire.
***
A vast crowd gathered within the Great Hall of the Dragona Empire, ranging from ordinary humans to witches, mages, and even delegates from various demon factions. This assembly was deep in intense discussion.
“What are we waiting for? Now is our chance! Those despicable church zealots are busy tearing each other apart.”
“That’s right. This is the moment the Dragona Empire has awaited. We’re going to destroy Roland and establish our own empire!”
Many nobles and demons pressed for an immediate, decisive war. They believed the chaotic state of Roland and the Holy Empire presented an unmissable opportunity, setting aside any reservations about Hangury, which was still nominally under a peace treaty.However, within the circle of witches and mages, some voices urged caution.
“We’re aware of the complications they’re facing, but that doesn’t mean we can underestimate them.”
“If we strike now, it could end up uniting them, making the confusion easier to resolve. Acting hastily while we’re still recovering from the last war isn’t wise.”
“But isn’t it a waste to let an opportunity like this slip by? With some planning, we might be able to capture the Kingdom of Roland, even if reaching the Holy Empire is a stretch…”
“Even that is too risky. Many have already witnessed the strength of the Kingdom of Roland and Hangury, haven’t we?”
As the empire’s key figures deliberated over seizing the moment, a voice cut through the discussions.
“Indeed, the Holy Empire and the Kingdom of Roland are formidable. They have thwarted our attacks multiple times, and under no circumstances should they be underestimated.”
“…!”
“Your Majesty…”
The room fell silent as Empress Roseveta, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke.
The ministers, caught off guard, grew quiet as the emperor continued in a measured voice.
“No matter how disorganized they may seem, it would be unwise for us to engage them alone without support from the Tarkics. Without such an alliance, we risk facing severe counterattacks and unnecessary losses.”
At these cautious words, some attendees couldn’t hide their disappointment. Despite the risks, a number of officials were eager to test their luck, hoping to gain something in the process.
Sensing this sentiment, the emperor adjusted his tone, speaking with an assertiveness befitting the ruler of a great empire.
“However, as many of you have pointed out, the current situation indeed presents a perfect opportunity. We cannot merely sit idly by. In that regard…”
Empress Roseveta’s gaze turned toward the chancellor seated nearby.
Prime Minister Selibras nodded, gesturing for a servant to bring a map to the front—a map of the entire continent.
Yet the region the chancellor indicated was neither the Holy Empire nor the Kingdom of Roland.
Instead…
“We will advance eastward, not westward.”
“East… the East?”
“Hoo…”
The ministers, taken aback, stared at the chancellor with surprise.
“Yes, precisely,” Prime Minister Selibras said with determination. “Historically, our conflict with the western church forces aimed to expand our influence and counteract their vigilance over us. But now, those concerns are irrelevant. This is our chance to claim the vast eastern plains.”
With the entire continent stirred by religious turmoil, no nation was in a position to strike at the Dragona Empire’s back. Roland, Frank, and even Hangury were embroiled in unrest, and in the Holy Empire, where regional lords held considerable power, the disunity was particularly severe.
To the east lay fertile lands, yet the region consisted of small duchies with minimal strength and unity. There were no prominent nations comparable to the Dragona Empire.
Moreover, the Dragona Empire had a unique and critical advantage over the western nations in approaching the eastern regions: the eastern lands, unlike the west, harbored numerous demons.
“If we approach these lands in line with our empire’s founding ideology, we can ally with these demons and expand our territory with minimal resistance,” Empress Roseveta said in a calm yet resolute tone.
The empress’ words sparked realization among the assembly; this endeavor seemed feasible and morally justified.
“Indeed,” someone murmured.
“A splendid idea, Your Majesty.”
“Demons… As natives of this land, they’ll surely understand our message.”
“Many demons in the east likely endure persecution from humans, much as we once did before receiving Her Majesty’s protection. Extending our nation’s noble spirit to them and offering freedom will surely have profound significance.”
With this, the justification was set—to liberate demons oppressed by humans, reminiscent of the empire’s founding. Though some felt regret at not confronting their old rivals, the prospect of territorial gains silenced any remaining dissent.
“I agree. We shall follow the will of Her Majesty and the Prime Minister.”
“Occupying the eastern lands will dramatically enhance the empire’s power. There is no reason to oppose it.”
“To rescue our brethren and display this nation’s rightful glory to the world. We, the demons, are prepared to devote our full strength!”
As the decision to march east received unanimous support, Prime Minister Selibras privately reflected on the wisdom he had gleaned from Bahamut Fernandez.
‘Indeed, one should not be constrained by immediate circumstances. Bahamut, I thank you sincerely for your insight.’
Thus, the Dragona Empire’s unexpected conquest of the East began—a campaign set in motion by a merchant’s seemingly casual remark. No scholar studying this historic turning point would later realize that the shift came from a single, offhand suggestion.
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